Where to Buy a Lobster Roll: The Best Places to Get Your Hands on This Iconic Seafood Sandwich

With its tender chunks of lobster meat tucked into a toasted, buttered bun, the lobster roll is the ultimate seafood sandwich. This New England specialty has gained nationwide fame and developed passionate followers who eagerly seek out the best versions. But where can you find this beloved treat? Here’s a guide to the top spots for satisfying your lobster roll craving

Online Seafood Shops

One convenient option is to order lobster rolls online through specialty seafood shops. Companies like Lobster Anywhere and Luke’s Lobster offer pre-assembled lobster roll kits shipped nationwide complete with lobster meat, buns butter, and instructions.

This allows you to recreate the experience at home without travel. Kits serve 4-8 people and cost $144-$204 depending on size. The meat is sustainably sourced from New England fisheries. Online ordering means you can enjoy a classic Maine or Connecticut-style lobster roll anywhere.

Grocery Store Lobster Rolls

Many major grocery store chains now sell prepared lobster rolls in the fresh seafood department. Stores like Publix, Wegmans, Whole Foods, and Fresh Market offer in-store baked lobster rolls dressed with lemon and mayo for $12-$16.

While not quite restaurant quality, these pre-made rolls capture the essence of the sandwich. They’re widely available at locations across the country, providing a convenient way to pick up a lobster roll for lunch or dinner.

New England Shacks and Restaurants

To taste the lobster roll in its natural habitat, head to coastal New England. Cities like Portland, Maine and Boston, Massachusetts are filled with legendary spots serving up these sandwiches.

Some of the top-rated lobster rolls come from local staples like Bite Into Maine Food Truck, Red’s Eats, and James Hook Lobster Co. Prices range from $18-$28 per roll. Part of the appeal is enjoying the view of the docks or ocean with your food.

Lobster Roll Festivals and Events

You can also target lobster roll festivals and events to sample multiple versions in one place. The Maine Lobster Festival hosts a popular lobster roll tasting contest every August. Other events like NYC’s Lobster Roll Rumble bring together restaurants to compete for honors.

Attending these gatherings allows you to experience the creativity different chefs bring to the lobster roll while honoring its classic roots. You’ll find unique twists alongside traditional preparations.

Regional Fast Casual Chains

Fast casual seafood chains expanding across the U.S. often feature the lobster roll on their menus. Places like Luke’s Lobster, Cousins Maine Lobster, and Bubbakoo’s Burritos sell lobster rolls alongside other regional fare.

Prices range from $15-$25 for these chain restaurant-style versions. While they may not reach gourmet tastes, the convenience and consistency make them handy options. Many shops now offer online ordering for easy takeout.

High-End Restaurants and Hotels

For a luxury twist, upscale restaurants and hotels have adopted the iconic lobster roll on their menus. Top chefs add unique ingredients and preparations while using high-quality lobster meat. Expect to pay $25-$35 for these elevated versions.

Trying a lobster roll at a renowned restaurant offers new experience. Keep an eye out for festivals and events where hotels and restaurants showcase their creativity with the lobster roll.

The Best Places Offer Quality and Freshness

Ultimately, the key factors that make any lobster roll special are the quality of ingredients and freshness of preparation. Places that hand-make their rolls from locally-sourced lobster tend to rise above mass-produced versions.

Seeking out renowned, decades-old seafood establishments in New England is a pilgrimage for many lobster roll aficionados. But excellent options exist across the country if you know where to look. With this guide, you’re on the right track for finding your perfect lobster roll experience.